While the winter has been long, and cold, and seems to never lighten up, it has been good for our chocolate shipments. However, now that the seasonal clock is edging closer to warm we all have to start watching weather forecasts for areas we are shipping to–judging whether or not extra protection is needed to keep our delicate chocolates safe.
One of the most thoughtful items you can give is the gift of chocolate. However, with friends and family located throughout the world, the thought of sending your handmade creations in the mail may seem daunting.
A few questions that can come up include, will my chocolate melt in the mail? How do I keep my candies safe? Or the big question – will my chocolate arrive in time?!
Don’t worry, we’re here to help ease your shipping chocolate woes. From the packing supplies you need, to tips on how to keep it from melting and more – we hope this guide will help clarify the guidelines surrounding shipping confectionery.
Will Chocolate Melt in the Mail?
When you’ve taken the time and care to create a beautiful gift, your top priority should be making sure that it arrives safely. While different types of chocolates have different melting points, the melting point of chocolate can be as low as 70°F. When it comes to shipping chocolate, keep your internal box temperature nice and cool with the appropriate packaging materials. Some general rules to follow include:
- Before sending chocolate in the mail, use food-safe candy packaging to keep them safe. Then, once individually taken care of, cushion and box your package in a larger shipping container.
- When you’re picking out your shipping container, make sure it’s large enough for cushioning, a cold pack, and your chocolates.
- Make sure your final final package is tightly sealed and clearly labeled.
Shipping Chocolate With Ice Cold Gel Packs
When you’re shipping perishables like chocolate, temperature control is crucial. The commute may subject your package to harsh environmental conditions like extreme heat or humidity. To help keep your chocolates intact and regulate temperature inside your package, carefully package your chocolates with cooling agents like gel ice packs or dry ice.
Remember: Cooling agents do have the tendency to melt or thaw. To keep your candies safe from unwanted condensation. Creating layers between your ice pack and chocolates can help reduce the transfer of heat through your container walls. Simply cover your chocolate package with a protective layer of loose fill cushioning and add an ice pack double wrapped in a plastic bag.
When it comes to shipping time-sensitive, speciality gifts, it’s crucial to consider shipping times and costs. It is not uncommon for third party carriers to request a 3-4 business day processing time (even for expedited shipping!). Make sure you have enough time for your chocolates to arrive by packaging and sending your items earlier than needed.
It should be noted: If you are a business and you’re shipping chocolates to a customer, keep communication between you and your recipient open. Make it clear to your customers that opting for a faster delivery option will make it more likely that their package will arrive in ideal condition. Don’t hesitate to let them know that cooling agents like ice cold gel packs may add weight and extra fees to any shipment.